Multi-Day Hiking

Multi-day hiking spans from spending an overnight on the Appalachian Trail to hiking every part of it through a series of multi-day hikes over many years. Here's what you need to know.

what to expect

Multi-day hiking spans from spending an overnight on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) to hiking every part of the ​Trail through a series of multi-day hikes over many years, called section hiking. (More information about section hiking is below.)

While multi-day hiking is not as intimidating as thru-hiking, it takes more commitment than day hiking. It requires more preparation, equipment, food, clothing and knowledge of ​Trail regulations and backcountry skills. Planning is crucial to a successful multi-day hike, so be sure to check out the hiking basics portion of our website.

about section hiking

A section hiker completes the A.T. in a series of multi-day trips over a period of years. This method allows hikers to enjoy all the A.T. has to offer without making some of the sacrifices required for a thru-hike. Section hikers are considered 2,000-milers.

Advantages

Choose your own pace and mileage.

See more of the Appalachian countryside and small towns during your travels to and from the A.T.

You can spread out expenses over time; there's no need to save up a big bundle.

Disadvantages

If you backpack short sections, you'll find you're just getting in good shape as it's time to go home, and you have to break in each time anew.

Traveling to and from the A.T. from home multiple times adds to overall expenses.

Public transportation can be scarce along the A.T. (bus stations and airports can be many miles away from where the hiker begins or ends a trip).

quick tip

Although you may tackle the A.T. in any order you wish, we advise that you don't start with New Hampshire and Maine or with those particular states if your section hike will span decades. These two northern states are much more challenging than other parts of the Trail and can be difficult for both beginners and veteran hikers, who may develop knee trouble over time.

Camping

Whether you're pitching a tent in a designated campsite or you're dispersed camping, minimize your impacts and know the camping regulations on the A.T.

Shelters

There are more than 250 backcountry shelters located along the A.T. for backpackers on a first-served basis. Not only are they the best places to stay dry, but they reduce hikers’ impact on the Trail environment.

Permits & Regulations

No fees or paid permits are required to access the A.T. for simply walking, but some New England campsites impose fees, and you must obtain permits for backcountry camping in two national parks on the A.T.

​appalachian ​trail ​community™

There are over 40 communities along the Appalachian Trail's corridor that have been recognized in The Appalachian Trail Community™ program. These towns and cities are considered assets by all that use the A.T., and many of these towns act as good friends and neighbors to the Trail.

As a visitor on the Trail, you can enjoy special events and promotions in these designated areas. When planning your hike, look to designated A.T. Communities for services such as shuttles, lodging, resupply and a warm welcome​!

report a hike

Section hikers and thru-hikers who complete the entire A.T. can report their journeys to us by filling out a 2,000-miler application. Those who submit their applications will be added to our roster of 2,000-milers and will receive a certificate of recognition, an A.T. patch and an accompanying 2,000-miler “rocker” patch. Each year the names of those who have reported hike completions in the previous 12 months are published in the Spring issue of A.T. Journeys magazine. Our comprehensive online 2,000-miler listing is updated periodically.

Download the Application

Recognition Policy

We give equal recognition to thru-hikers and section hikers.

In the event of a Trail closure or a safety hazard (such as a swollen stream, a forest fire, or an impending storm on an exposed ridge) hikers may take alternate routes (including by vehicle) and still receive official 2,000-miler recognition.

We operate on the honor system.

We recognize hikers regardless of sequence, direction, speed, or whether they carry a pack.

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The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.